Miss N.H. returns to Granite State with her head held high

Monday

Jan 14, 2013 at 3:15 AMJan 14, 2013 at 12:13 PM

By Janine MitchellSpecial to the Democrat

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — The Miss New Hampshire delegation greeted their titleholder with open arms, tight squeezes and much pride for the young lady who did not make the top 15 at Miss America Saturday evening.

“God has other plans for her,” said her mother, Liz Lyman.

Megan spent nine months preparing for the rigorous competition at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. She competed with representatives from each of the United States, Puerto Rico, The Virgin Islands and Washington, D.C.

The 53 women compete in several phases of competition including a 10-minute interview in front of a panel of judges, on-stage question, talent, evening wear, and lifestyle and fitness in swimsuit.

Though Megan did not make the top 15 contestants in the final competition aired nationally on ABC on Saturday evening, she is still proud of her performance.

President and Executive Director of the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Organization Brenda Keith says Megan had more supporters and fans in Las Vegas to watch her compete than any previous Miss N.H.

“We sincerely thank everyone who came out to support her,” says Liz.

While packing up her things to leave Las Vegas, Megan says with her head held high, “Everything happens for a reason. I believe there's a different plan for me and I'm ready for whatever it may be.”

Megan will now return to New Hampshire and finish out her reign, serving the Granite State's community as her full-time job.

At the 2013 Miss New Hampshire competition, Megan will crown her successor on Saturday, April 27. Tickets for this event will be available on www.missnh.org or by calling the Miss N.H. office at 603-437-9027.

After the new Miss America, formerly Miss New York, was crowned Saturday evening Megan couldn't have been happier for her.

“She's just so nice,” said Megan on Saturday.

It is clear where Miss N.H. gets her positive outlook on life as her mother, Liz, explained, “You know what, it's a blessing. This year she will be an aunt for the third time and a godmother for the first — and she'll now be there for the birth,” said Liz, “We are so incredibly proud of all she's accomplished this year.”

Follow Megan Lyman on Facebook as “Miss New Hampshire 2012” and on Twitter at @MegLyman to stay up to date with the rest of her travels.